What term is used to describe masonry reservoirs commonly found in rural water supplies?

The term that describes masonry reservoirs commonly found in rural water supplies is "cisterns." Cisterns are specifically designed for the collection and storage of rainwater or other water sources, making them crucial for communities, especially in rural areas where access to a reliable water supply might be limited. These structures can be made from various materials, including masonry, concrete, or even metal, and are typically situated underground or partially buried to maintain water temperature and reduce evaporation.

Cisterns serve multiple purposes, such as providing irrigation water for agriculture or drinking water for households, and they are integral to a sustainable water supply system in areas where groundwater may not be readily available or where surface water sources are insufficient. Their design often includes features that protect the water from contamination, further highlighting their importance in the sanitation and public health landscape.

Other terms like leaching pits, cesspools, and seepage pits refer to different waste management or drainage systems and do not apply to the concept of water storage, which is fundamentally what cisterns represent.